Position: Archivist (Contract)
Organization: Southwest California Synod, ELCA
Location: Glendale, CA
About Us: The Southwest California Synod, a part of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), is a group of 106 congregations serving Southern California from Long Beach to Atascadero. The office of the bishop is located in Glendale, California. This office houses the archives of five synods, encompassing the ministries of hundreds of congregations in the western United States.
Position Overview: As an Archivist on contract, you will be entrusted with the vital responsibility of preserving and organizing the historical records and heritage of Lutheran congregations, under the auspices of the Southwest California Synod. This contract position offers an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the history of our community and ensure its preservation for future generations. Meticulous care and responsiveness to the requests from bishops, synodical staffs and congregations is imperative.
Key Responsibilities:
- Record Maintenance: Oversee the meticulous maintenance and organization of historical records, documents, and artifacts related to Lutheran congregations in the Western United States, including closed congregations. The archivist must follow denominational protocols for record retention and retrieval.
- Data Organization: Develop and maintain efficient systems for cataloging and organizing archival materials, adhering to established archival standards and best practices.
- Response to Requests: Handle requests for information, including inquiries for baptismal records and other vital documents, with promptness and professionalism.
- On-site Work: This position requires physical presence at our Glendale, CA location. You will be responsible for performing archival tasks on-site, which may involve lifting and moving materials weighing up to 40 lbs. and climbing and descending stairs.
- Scheduling Flexibility: While the availability for nights and weekends is offered to provide scheduling flexibility, it is not mandatory and will be determined based on project demands and your availability.
- Background Check: A background check is required for this position to ensure the security and confidentiality of archival materials.
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Library Science, Archival Studies, History, or a related field is encouraged, but not mandatory.
- Previous experience working as an archivist or in a similar role, preferably within a religious or nonprofit organization.
- Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
- Ability to lift and move materials weighing up to 40 lbs.
- Proficiency in archival standards and best practices.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Commitment to maintaining confidentiality and upholding ethical standards in archival work.
Compensation: This position offers a competitive hourly rate of $25/hr.
Application Process: To apply, please submit a resume and cover letter outlining your qualifications and relevant experience toadmin@socalsynod.org. Applications will be accepted until May 15, 2024, and interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis.
Equal Opportunity Employer: The Southwest California Synod, ELCA, is an equal opportunity employer and encourages individuals from all backgrounds to apply.
This job description reflects the specific requirements and expectations for the Archivist position at the Southwest California Synod, ELCA. Adjustments can be made as necessary to align with the organization’s needs and preferences.